Sedona is an Arizona desert town near Flagstaff that’s surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. It’s noted for its mild climate and vibrant arts community. Uptown Sedona is dense with New Age shops, spas and art galleries. On the town’s outskirts, numerous trailheads access Red Rock State Park, which offers bird-watching, hiking and picnicking spots. â Google
Best Months:
March – May and September – November
Perfect hiking weather, clear skies, wildflowers (spring), or vibrant fall colors.
Summer (June–August):
Hot (80s–90s °F), but less crowded and more hotel deals. Early morning hikes are best.
Winter (Dec–Feb):
Chilly evenings (30s–40s °F), occasional snow dusting on red rocks, fewer tourists.
Nearest Major Airport:
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – ~2 hours (120 miles) south.
Other Options:
Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) – Small airport, 45 minutes from Sedona.
Shuttles/Transfers: Available from Phoenix or Flagstaff.
Car Rental: Highly recommended for flexibility and scenic drives.
By Car:
Drive from Phoenix via I-17 N → AZ-179 N (Red Rock Scenic Byway – very picturesque!).
Cathedral Rock – Iconic red rock formation and popular hiking/sunset spot.
Chapel of the Holy Cross – Stunning modern chapel built into the rocks.
Bell Rock & Courthouse Butte – Great for easy to moderate hikes with vortex energy.
Devil’s Bridge Trail – Popular hike leading to a natural sandstone arch.
Oak Creek Canyon – Scenic canyon drive and picnic area; beautiful in fall.
Airport Mesa – Panoramic views, especially for sunset and stargazing.
Slide Rock State Park – Natural water slides and swimming in summer.
Sedona Vortex Sites – Spiritual spots believed to offer healing energy.
Palatki Heritage Site – Ancient cliff dwellings and rock art by the Sinagua people.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village – Cobblestone walkways, galleries, and boutiques.
Hiking & Photography:
Easy: Bell Rock Pathway, Fay Canyon Trail
Moderate: Cathedral Rock, Doe Mountain
Challenging: Bear Mountain, Wilson Mountain
Pink Jeep Tours:
4x4 off-road adventures into red rock country – very popular.
Stargazing:
Sedona is an International Dark Sky Community — skies are spectacular at night.
Vortex Meditation Tours:
Join a guided spiritual or yoga session at one of Sedona’s energy vortex sites.
Wine Tasting:
Nearby Verde Valley has Arizona’s best vineyards (Page Springs, Cottonwood).
Hot Air Balloon Ride:
Take in sunrise views over the red rocks from above.
Art & Healing:
Book a massage, crystal therapy, reiki, or tarot reading in town.
Visit Jerome or Prescott:
Quaint ghost towns and artsy mountain towns are great for half-day trips.
Luxury:
L’Auberge de Sedona – Creekside cottages and romantic views.
Enchantment Resort – Surrounded by red cliffs in Boynton Canyon.
Amara Resort and Spa – Upscale with a spa and downtown location.
Mid-Range:
Arabella Hotel Sedona – Walkable, pet-friendly, and scenic.
Poco Diablo Resort – Comfortable with golf and pool.
Sedona Real Inn & Suites – Great for families or longer stays.
Budget-Friendly:
The Andante Inn of Sedona – Affordable and clean.
GreenTree Inn Sedona – Budget pick with nice views.
Sedona Motel – Simple and close to downtown.
Unique Stays:
Airbnb cabins, earthship rentals, or eco-lodges in the hills.
Must-Try Eats:
Elote Café – Modern Mexican cuisine with bold flavors (book early).
The Hudson – Upscale comfort food with red rock views.
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill – Elegant with cliffside seating.
Tamaliza – Authentic handmade tamales and pozole.
Sedona Memories Bakery Café – Delicious sandwiches and pastries.
Creekside American Bistro – Cozy spot with a view of Oak Creek.
Casual Options:
Hideaway House – Pizza, pasta, and deck seating.
Picazzo’s Organic Italian – Gluten-free and health-conscious.
Pump House Station – Great coffee, brunch, and garden patio.
ð Spiritual Center: Known worldwide for vortexes, metaphysical shops, crystal healing, and retreat centers.
ð§ðĻ Artistic Soul: Numerous galleries, outdoor sculptures, First Friday art walks.
ðĩ Live Music & Events: Small venues with acoustic, jazz, or Native-inspired performances.
ðŠķ Native American Heritage: Influence seen in art, jewelry, and sacred sites.
ðŋ Eco-Minded Vibe: Clean air, sustainability, and respect for nature are top values.